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Course overview
The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties builds a genuine, working knowledge of conditions such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD and developmental coordination disorder, and how they affect people in education, work and everyday life. You will explore the characteristics, causes and effects of each, along with the diagnostic process behind them.
It suits anyone who wants to support neurodivergent individuals more effectively, whether in a classroom, a care setting, or as a parent or carer. This is a knowledge based qualification with no work placement required, and it promotes an inclusive, strengths focused understanding of neurodiversity throughout.
Who this course is for
- Anyone wanting to understand specific learning difficulties better
- Teaching assistants and education support staff
- Early years practitioners and childcare professionals
- Health and social care workers
- Parents or carers supporting someone with a learning difficulty
- Anyone wanting to build their awareness of neurodiversity
What you will learn
You will build a clear understanding of the characteristics of different specific learning difficulties, and the impact they can have on individuals and the people around them. The course covers the strengths and barriers people with learning difficulties often experience, and how the diagnostic process actually works. You will learn how individuals can be supported across education, work and social settings, the role professionals and support services play, and why legislation, policy and inclusive practice matter throughout.
Course units
This qualification is made up of 5 mandatory units. You will need to complete all of them to achieve the certificate.
- Understand specific learning difficulties
- Understand the effects of specific learning difficulties
- Understand the diagnosis of specific learning difficulties
- Understand supporting individuals with specific learning difficulties
- Understand the context of specific learning difficulties
Duration and study format
| Awarding organisation | NCFE CACHE, Ofqual regulated |
|---|---|
| Study format | 100% online, self paced, through our secure e-portfolio platform |
| Course access | Up to 6 months from enrolment |
| Guided learning hours | 129 hours |
| Total qualification time | 153 hours |
| Credit value | 15 credits |
| Entry requirements | Minimum age 16, no prior qualifications needed |
How you are assessed
You will build a portfolio of written evidence against each unit's learning outcomes. A qualified assessor reviews your work and gives feedback within 7 days of submission, with internal quality assurance keeping every decision fair and consistent. Work is graded achieved or not yet achieved, so there is no exam, just steady progress against an agreed submission schedule.
Where this course can take you
This certificate builds naturally into further education, health and social care study, and supports progression into:
- Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities
- Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working with People with Mental Health Needs
- Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Adults)
- Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism
- Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools
- Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce
- Level 3 Award in Supporting Children and Young People's Speech, Language and Communication
It also supports roles such as teaching assistant, learning support assistant, support worker, early years practitioner and care assistant.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a background in education or care to start this course?
No. This course suits complete beginners as well as those already working in education, childcare or care settings. There are no entry requirements beyond being 16 or over.
Does this course cover autism as well as learning difficulties?
This qualification focuses specifically on specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD and developmental coordination disorder, though it touches on the wider context of neurodiversity. A dedicated Understanding Autism qualification is a natural next step for a deeper focus there.
Is this course suitable for parents or carers, not just professionals?
Yes. Many learners take this course to better understand and support a child, family member or the person they care for, alongside those studying it for professional development.
How long do I have to complete the course?
You have up to 6 months of access and study at your own pace, with an agreed submission schedule to help keep you on track.
What support will I get while studying?
You will have remote tutor support throughout the course, feedback from a qualified assessor within 7 days of each submission, and ongoing pastoral support.
Is this qualification nationally recognised?
Yes. It is an NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate regulated by Ofqual, so it carries the same national recognition as other regulated qualifications at this level.
Understand and support individuals with specific learning difficulties — 100% online, self-paced, and nationally recognised.
This NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate gives you a comprehensive understanding of specific learning difficulties like dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and developmental coordination disorder. Learn about their characteristics, diagnosis, and how to support individuals in education, work, and everyday life. Perfect for teaching assistants, support workers, parents, or anyone wanting to understand neurodiversity better. No workplace placement required.
📘 NCFE CACHE Level 2 | Ofqual-regulated
📍 100% online | Self-paced | Up to 6 months access
📍 15 credits | 129 guided learning hours
📍 No prior qualifications needed | Minimum age 16
